The discovery of another woman's body near Johannesburg has sparked renewed concern in South Africa, after seven women were reportedly found dead in the area over the past two months.
The latest victim was discovered on Tuesday morning in or around Kempton Park, north-east of Johannesburg. The discovery has intensified fears among local residents that a serial killer could be operating in the area.
However, police have stressed that they are not currently linking the deaths to a serial killer.
Instead, investigators are examining whether a group of people could potentially be responsible for the killings.
Only two of the seven victims have been identified so far. One of them is Elizabeth Moselakgomo, a runner who disappeared last week and whose disappearance prompted an extensive search.
The deaths have reportedly occurred over a period beginning in mid-July. A second woman was found in late August, followed by further discoveries this month, including two victims found within the past two days.
The circumstances have caused considerable fear and uncertainty among residents, particularly women.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has vowed that authorities will investigate the deaths and find those responsible.
"No stone will be left unturned," Ramaphosa said, while acknowledging the fear being experienced by communities.
"These incidents are causing fear and uncertainty in our communities, and especially among women," he added.
Authorities have urged women in the affected area to take additional precautions, including avoiding walking or exercising alone, particularly in isolated areas.
The South African Commission for Gender Equality has also called on residents of Kempton Park to cooperate with police as investigators work to establish what happened to the victims.
In a statement, the commission highlighted the wider dangers faced by women in the country.
"Women should be able to run, walk to work, use public transport, return home, visit friends and participate in community life without having to calculate whether an ordinary activity could place their lives at risk," the organisation said.
The investigation is taking place against the backdrop of South Africa's longstanding problem with gender-based violence. UN Women has reported that the country experiences extremely high levels of violence against women, with women facing a significantly elevated risk of being killed compared with the global average.
The latest deaths have consequently prompted anger as well as fear, with concerns being raised about women's safety and whether enough is being done to protect potential victims.
Despite speculation online and among members of the public about the possibility of a serial killer, investigators have not confirmed that the deaths are connected.
With five of the seven victims still unidentified, authorities also face the difficult task of establishing their identities and notifying their families.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding each death, while the community waits for further information about whether the cases are connected and who may be responsible.
